Spencer Lee - Wrestling - Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 14 - Source: Getty

WATCH: Spencer Lee receives a heartwarming welcome from a large crowd at the Eastern Iowa Airport after winning the silver medal at the Paris Olympics

Modified Aug 19, 2024 03:49 GMT

Spencer Lee won the silver medal in the men's 57kg wrestling in his debut Olympic appearance in the French Capital. After winning the silver medal, Lee received a heartwarming welcome from a large crowd at the Eastern Iowa Airport.

Spencer Lee was slated to compete in the U.S. Olympic wrestling trials for the Tokyo Olympics, however, he had to pull out due to recurring knee injuries, thereby postponing his Olympic dream for the next edition of the quadrennial games. He made a strong comeback and qualified for his maiden Olympics at the World Olympic Games Qualifier 2024.

After a dominant display at the Paris Olympics, Lee went on to advance to the finals of the men's 57kg wrestling category swiftly. However, his dream to win the gold medal was shattered by Rei Higuchi of Japan who clinched the victory with a score of 4-2.

He received huge support from fans and enthusiasts at the Eastern Iowa Airport for winning his first Olympic medal. Hawkeye Wrestling Club took to Instagram to share a glimpse of his grand welcome.

"Spencer brought home our programs 11th Olympic medal last night in-front of a large crowd at the Eastern Iowa Airport! THANK YOU HAWKEYE NATION for showing up and supporting our guys! Welcome Home Spencer!!," read the caption.

Spencer Lee on winning his first Olympic medal in Paris

Spencer Lee- Wrestling - Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 14 - Source: Getty

Spencer Lee was disappointed after not winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The American wrestler took to Instagram to express his thoughts about his performance at the quadrennial games in Paris.

Despite being disappointed initially, Lee expressed that he felt proud to bring home the silver medal from the prestigious games after competing against some of the best wrestlers in the world.

"I was disappointed yesterday in not bringing home the gold for the United States. I am however proud to bring a silver medal back to the United States and the University of Iowa. I also want to thank the Hawkeye wrestling club and all the fans for the incredible support," he wrote.

"To see so many fans travel for team USA and myself was an honor. I also want to thank my coaches and teammates for training me and giving me the best opportunity for success this weekend.Go USA and Go Hawks!," he added.

Wrestlers like Gable Stevenson and Kenny Blades among others extended their support and congratulated Lee for his incredible achievement.